HC Deb 29 October 1999 vol 336 cc1005-6W
Mr. Key

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on(a) the current status and (b) the future of the biological, radiological and chemical information system. [95801]

Mr. Hoon

The Biological, Radiological and Chemical Information System (BRACIS) are a computer-based prediction system. If a Biological, Radiological or Chemical hazard were detected, the system would assist commanders in the field to understand the implications of the hazard, and take appropriate action.

BRACIS was acquired in 1995 and is used by all three Services. An updated version of the software was acquired this year and this recently began to be used for training purposes at the Defence Nuclear, Biological & Chemical (NBC) School.

A more capable system is being developed with a communications capability which will enable it to be integrated with other systems contributing towards digitisation of the battlespace.